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2011 Chrysler 300

The 2011 Chrysler 300 marked a significant redesign for the model, offering a more refined and luxurious experience compared to its predecessor. Engine choices included a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (292 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (363 hp, 394 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.7L V6 (178 hp, 190 lb-ft of torque). The car was generally praised for its improved interior quality, smoother ride, and distinctive styling. However, some owners found the rear visibility to be limited and the fuel economy of the V8 engine to be less than ideal. Common complaints revolve around electrical issues, specifically with the entertainment system and the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module).

Engine

2.7L V6

No Issues Found

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Engine Misfire
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, check engine light, reduced power. Can be caused by faulty ignition coils or fuel injectors.
    • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) and/or fuel injector(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per coil/injector replacement
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Filter Housing Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil filter adapter/housing, often dripping onto the exhaust manifold, causing a burning smell. Common with the plastic housing.
    • Solution: Replace the oil filter adapter/housing with an updated aluminum version if available.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • “Hemi Tick”
    • Description/Symptoms: A ticking or tapping noise originating from the engine, often more noticeable at idle or low speeds. The exact cause is debated, but it is often attributed to lifter issues or exhaust manifold leaks.
    • Solution: Diagnosis required to determine the exact cause (lifters, exhaust manifold, etc.). Repair or replacement of the affected component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the cause
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak noise (ticking or hissing sound), reduced fuel economy, and potential exhaust fumes entering the cabin. Often caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts.
    • Solution: Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts and potentially resurface the exhaust manifold.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

  • Shifter Stuck in Park/Difficulty Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty moving the shift lever out of park or between gears. This can be caused by a faulty brake light switch or a malfunctioning shift interlock solenoid.
    • Solution: Replace the brake light switch or shift interlock solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front Suspension Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can be caused by worn sway bar links, ball joints, or control arm bushings.
    • Solution: Replace worn sway bar links, ball joints, and/or control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the parts replaced
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical problems, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling), intermittent starting issues, power window malfunctions, and erratic behavior of various electrical systems.
    • Solution: Replace the TIPM. In some cases, the fuel pump relay can be bypassed with an external relay.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for TIPM replacement; $100 - $300+ for fuel pump relay bypass
    • Recalls: Some model years and VIN ranges may have had recalls related to the fuel pump relay within the TIPM. Check the NHTSA website with your VIN.
  • Uconnect System Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation system malfunctions.
    • Solution: Attempt software updates (if available), or replace the Uconnect head unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1000+ (head unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Wheel Hub Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature rusting on the wheel hub assembly
    • Solution: Clean off rust from the assembly. Replace wheel hub assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$300
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
    • Solution: Lubricate sunroof tracks, repair or replace sunroof motor/regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Chrysler 300 has a mix of potential issues, with electrical problems (particularly related to the TIPM and Uconnect) being the most concerning due to their potential impact on vehicle reliability and safety. Engine-related issues, such as the “Hemi tick” and oil leaks, are also fairly common and can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Suspension noise is a relatively minor issue, but can be annoying. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for any signs of these common problems and consider obtaining a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to over $1000 for more complex problems like TIPM replacement or engine repairs.

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